Employee Perceptions of the Contributory Pension Scheme and Its Implications for Job Satisfaction in the Nigerian Public Service

Abstract

This qualitative phenomenological study investigates employees’ experiences regarding the influence of the contributory pension system on job satisfaction in the Nigerian public service. Twenty-four participants were purposefully selected from three ministries in Abuja, Nigeria. Data for the study were collected using semi-structured interviews, and the analysis employed a thematic approach. The findings revealed significant obstacles, including delays in the disbursement of retirement benefits, limited access to pension savings, complex management and policy issues, and high contribution rates. These factors contribute to employees’ lack of job satisfaction and erode their trust in the pension scheme. The study provides policymakers with insights into the challenges confronting the contributory pension scheme and proposes reforms aimed at enhancing its capacity to ensure financial security for employees. Furthermore, the study contributes to the existing literature on pensions and the development of policies aimed at promoting the implementation of a sustainable pension scheme.